My name is Lavelle DeHughes and I am the first in my family to attend college. My mother has worked hard to support my dream to become a commercial pilot. There are currently a very low number of African American pilots and I plan to proudly represent my community as I pursue my FAA license. Navigating my second year at Tuskegee University has presented many more challenges than the first given that COVID has drastically impacted funding opportunities for students in general and out-of-state students like myself personally. I considered taking a leave of absence due to the insurmountable costs this semester. Last week, I found out I passed the written exam for the Red Tails Scholarship Foundation. If I am selected for this scholarship it will pay for all of the costs associated with earning my FAA pilot's license (books, flying hours, gas, exams, etc). In order for me to return to school to remain eligible for this scholarship I need to pay my spring semester fees of $6000 by tomorrow, February 5th. 

I am deeply grateful for any support you can provide me to continue my education this semester.